New Jersey College Introduces Counter-Drone Training Program to Curriculum
Warren County Community College Introduces Counter-Drone Training Program
Warren County Community College in New Jersey is set to launch a formal counter-drone security curriculum this fall, making it the first higher education institution in the United States to offer such a program at scale. This initiative comes in response to increasing concerns about drone-related security threats, particularly following incidents where drones have posed risks to military aircraft and critical infrastructure.
Overview of WarrenUAS Program
The college’s existing drone training program, known as WarrenUAS, has been operational since 2018 and has gained recognition for its comprehensive approach to drone education. WarrenUAS was the first community college in the U.S. to receive a Part 107.39 waiver, allowing it to conduct drone operations over people. The program boasts several notable features:
- Holds a 44807 exception, one of only five in the country, for training on drones over 55 lbs.
- Possesses BVLOS waivers and a state-of-the-art Smith Flight Training Center.
- Offers extensive laboratory space and a diverse fleet of over 75 aircraft.
- Maintains a formal pathway agreement with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
The program has garnered attention from the FAA, which hosted a regional safety conference on campus, and has received federal funding to enhance its curriculum.
Leadership Behind the C-UAS Curriculum
The new counter-drone program is being developed by Brandon Youngblood and L. Scott Parker, both of whom bring extensive experience in UAS security. Youngblood, a former FAA manager, emphasizes the potential dangers posed by drones, citing scenarios where a low-cost drone could threaten high-value assets like military aircraft. Parker, previously a senior leader at CISA, has been instrumental in shaping federal policies on drone security and has firsthand experience managing drone-related incidents in populated areas.
Curriculum Details
The counter-drone curriculum aims to equip students with the skills necessary to:
- Identify drone threats and differentiate between safe and illegal drone operations.
- Understand the regulatory framework governing drone use.
- Respond effectively to incidents involving potentially hostile drones.
Students will first complete standard drone operations training, ensuring they have a solid foundation in drone technology before advancing to counter-drone strategies. The program also recognizes the unique challenges posed by domestic drone threats, which differ from those seen in conflict zones.
Future Implications for the Workforce
The introduction of this program reflects a growing recognition of the need for professionals trained in counter-drone operations. As the demand for skilled individuals in this field increases, Warren County Community College aims to bridge the gap by providing accessible education and training. The program is expected to benefit not only students but also first responders and security personnel through ongoing professional development initiatives.
As the drone industry evolves, the focus is shifting from merely understanding drone capabilities to addressing the potential threats they pose. WarrenUAS is positioning itself as a leader in this emerging field, preparing students for careers in national security and public safety.
Photo credit: Warren Community College